Norris named Legislator of the Year by state DAs

Tennessee Senate Republican Leader Mark Norris (R-Collierville) was recently honored by the Tennessee Conference of District Attorneys General at the organization's annual convention in Knoxville.

Norris received the group's 2008 "Legislator of the Year" award in recognition of his outstanding leadership and continuing efforts to improve the criminal justice system in Tennessee.

Most recently, Norris sponsored the "Crooks with Guns" legislation, which enhances the sentencing of criminals who possess or use a firearm during the attempt or commission of a violent crime. Norris has served on the Senate's Judiciary Committee for eight years, during which time he has authored and passed significant reforms to strengthen the state's criminal sentencing laws and to prevent child abuse. His "Crooks with Guns" legislation, which became effective earlier this year, is the most significant sentencing reform in more than a generation.

The award was presented by D.A. Conference President Bill Gibbons and Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, both commending Norris as they addressed more than 700 district attorneys from across the state.

"I humbly accept this on your behalf and for all crime fighters in Tennessee who work day and night to keep us safe and make Tennessee a better place to live," said Norris, who said it is unfortunate that few candidates for political office have made law enforcement the focus of their campaigns. "It must be more of a priority."

Norris represents the West Tennessee counties of Dyer, Lauderdale, Tipton and Shelby.